Cancer most commonly occurs in older dogs cats. There are many cancers in pets including solid tumors such as fibrosarcomas (which often occur following vaccinations especially in cats,) and cancers of the blood and lymphatic systems such as lymphosarcoma. Common causes of cancers include genetic factors (such as bladder cancer in Scottish Terriers,) chronic inflammation, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and numerous environmental factors. Regular physical examinations, blood tests, urine testing, and aspiration of all suspicious lumps in dogs is the best way to allow for early detection and treatment cancer. For more information on preventing and treating cancer in pets, see my book The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs.

Treatment Options (Always Consult Your Veterinarian)

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (fish oil primarily, also flax oil) – Dosed at 10 mg/pound of body weight 1-3 times daily.

Antioxidants – Antioxidants include vitamins A, C, and E, minerals such as selenium, and other substances such as coenzyme Q-10, bilberry, blueberry, resveratrol, OPC’s, etc., work by reducing cell-harming oxidizing chemicals released upon cell damage and death.

DMG – per label

Coenzyme Q-10 – 1 mg/pound body weight 1-2 times daily

Herbs – alfalfa, aloe vera, astragalus, burdock, dandelion leaf/root, Echinacea, garlic, ginseng, goldenseal, hawthorn, marshmallow, milk thistle, nettle, red clover, St. John’s Wort, turmeric, yellow dock.

Mushrooms – maitake, reishi, shitake.

Arabinogalactans – per label

Homeopathics – many, varies with cancer and condition of patient

Homotoxicology – many, varies with cancer and condition of patient

Diet – High Fat (especially omega 3’s,) high protein, low starchy carbohydrates

Author – Dr. Shawn Messonnier, DVM